The Turkish government has donated 20 buses to the Gambia on Friday
The Turkish ambassador to the Gambia has disclosed plans by the Turkish Airlines to conduct two direct flights from Istanbul to Banjul in a week effective 26 November, 2018.
Ismail Sefa Yuceer made the remarks on Friday as his government donated 20 buses to Gambia Government through Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (İBB) at the McCarthy Square in Banjul.
The event was graced by President Adama Barrow, government dignitaries and a delegation from the Turkish embassy.
“I strongly believe that the direct flights will not only increase peoples’ interaction and business relationship between Turkey and The Gambia but also will further connect the West African country through the Hub of Istanbul with the rest of the world,” Yuceer said.
He said the recent developments in Gambia, either at bilateral or multilateral level, are very promising and encouraging for the future of the country.
“… I believe that the OIC Islamic Summit meeting to be hosted by Gambia next year will further contribute to the promotion and development of the country,” he added.
On the donation of the buses, Ambassador Yuceer said the buses are manifestation of the Turkish government’s benevolent gesture to the people of The Gambia.
Whiles reaffirming his government’s commitment to the new era and dispensation in The Gambia, Ambassador Yuceer said from the very first day in the new dispensation the Turkish government Via President Recep Tayib Erdugan, has been supportive to President Barrow and his team.
Ismail Haki Turune, the head of delegation said the Turkish Government has great intentions towards helping the Gambia, adding that the West African country has the opportunity to learn a lot from Turkey in the areas of transport and managing cities.
Meanwhile, the Gambian leader, President Adama Barrow praised the Turkish government for their continued support to his government since the advent of the new dispensation.
The Gambian leader also reaffirms his government commitment towards building close ties with Turkey. Gambian officials said the donated buses will help in addressing the public transportation challenges in Gambia.